DE102018110921A1 - Fuel storage assembly for a vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

A fuel storage assembly for a vehicle includes a fuel tank that defines a fuel chamber, fuel pump module, and a vapor pressure sensing system. The fuel pump module includes a flange engaging with the fuel tank and a fuel storage assembly carried by the flange and disposed in the combustion chamber. The vapor pressure detection system includes a vapor pressure sensor attached to the flange, a vapor pressure inlet device disposed in the combustion chamber, and a conduit communicating between the vapor pressure inlet device and the vapor pressure sensor.

Description

INTRODUCTION

The subject disclosure relates to a fuel storage assembly of a vehicle, and more particularly to a vapor pressure sensing system of the fuel storage assembly.

Fuel tank systems, such as those used for vehicles, may include the ability to measure the fuel vapor pressure within the fuel tank of the system. Typical fuel vapor pressure sensors used to measure fuel vapor pressure within the tank are limited to communicating through the tank to the location where they can be attached to the fuel tank. Such limits may further limit the packaging options of the fuel tank relative to the vehicle itself.

Accordingly, further design improvements relative to fuel vapor pressure sensors and supporting components of the fuel tank system are desirable.

SUMMARY

A fuel storage assembly for a vehicle according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure includes a fuel tank, a fuel pump module, and a vapor collection system. The fuel tank defines a fuel chamber. The fuel pump module includes a flange that engages the fuel tank and a flange supported fuel pump assembly and is disposed in the fuel chamber. The vapor pressure sensing system includes a flange mounted vapor pressure sensor, a vapor pressure inlet device disposed in the fuel chamber, and a conduit attached to the vapor pressure inlet device that communicates between the vapor pressure inlet device and the vapor pressure sensor.

Besides the above embodiment, the vapor pressure inlet device is disposed at a higher elevation than the flange.

Alternatively or additionally, in the previous embodiment, the fuel tank includes a maximum fuel level and the vapor pressure inlet device is located above the maximum fuel level.

Alternatively or additionally, in the previous embodiment, the flange is located below the maximum fuel level.

Alternatively or additionally, in the previous embodiment, the vapor pressure inlet device includes a vapor permeable membrane that is constructed and arranged to prevent the migration of liquid fuel into an inlet end segment of the conduit.

Alternatively or additionally, in the previous embodiment, the vapor pressure inlet device includes a birdcage structure attached to the conduit and is covered by the vapor permeable membrane.

Alternatively or additionally, the vapor permeable membrane in the previous embodiment is a synthetic fabric.

Alternatively, or in addition, the conduit in the previous embodiment is a tube constructed and arranged to provide vapor pressure communication between the vapor pressure inlet device and the vapor pressure sensor.

A fuel storage assembly for a vehicle according to another non-limiting embodiment includes a fuel tank defining a vapor-containing fuel chamber and a vapor pressure sensing system including a vapor pressure sensor disposed outside the fuel tank, a vapor permeable membrane, a conduit extending between the vapor dome and the vapor pressure sensor, to provide communication between the two, the conduit including an inlet end segment disposed in the vapor dome and restricted by the vapor permeable membrane to restrict migration of liquid fuel into the inlet end segment.

In addition to the previous embodiment, the fuel storage assembly includes a flange attached to the fuel tank, wherein the inlet end segment communicates with the vapor pressure sensor through the flange.

Alternatively or additionally, the vapor pressure sensor is attached to the flange in the previous embodiment.

Alternatively or additionally, the flange in the previous embodiment is part of a fuel pump module.

Alternatively or additionally, the steam dome in the previous embodiment defined by a portion of the fuel tank and a surface of the liquid fuel.

Alternatively or additionally, the fuel tank in the previous embodiment is a saddle fuel bank.

A vapor pressure sensing system for a fuel tank of a vehicle according to another non-limiting embodiment includes a fuel vapor permeable membrane, a vapor pressure sensor, and a tube extending between the vapor pressure permeable membrane and the vapor pressure sensor. The tube at least partially provides communication between an inlet end segment of the tube and the vapor pressure sensor. The fuel vapor permeable membrane generally covers at least a portion of the inlet end segment of the tube.

In addition to the previous embodiment, the vapor pressure sensing system includes a flange that is constructed and arranged to be attached to the fuel tank, wherein communication between the inlet end segment of the tube and the vapor pressure sensor is through the flange.

Alternatively or additionally, the vapor pressure sensor is attached to the flange in the previous embodiment.

Alternatively or additionally, in the previous embodiment, the vapor pressure sensor includes a shroud having an electrical connection portion and a central portion extending through the flange to connect an outlet end segment of the tube via the inlet end segment.

Alternatively or additionally, the vapor pressure sensing system includes a birdcage structure attached to the inlet end segment, wherein the vapor permeable membrane covers the birdcage structure.

Alternatively or additionally, the vapor permeable membrane in the previous embodiment is generally liquid impermeable.

The above features and advantages as well as other features and functions of the present disclosure will become more readily apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

list of figures

• 1 ist ein Querschnitt einer Brennstoffverwahrungsbaugruppe;
• 2 ist eine Perspektivansicht eines Brennstoffpumpenmoduls der Brennstoffverwahrungsbaugruppe;
• 3 ist seine Perspektivansicht eines Dampfdrucksensors der auf einem Flansch des Brennstoffpumpenmoduls befestigten Brennstoffverwahrungsbaugruppe; und
• 4 ist ein Querschnitt einer Dampfdruckeinlassvorrichtung der innerhalb eines Brennstofftanks der Brennstoffverwahrungsbaugruppe befestigten Brennstoffverwahrungsbaugruppe.

Other features, advantages and details appear only by way of example in the following detailed description of the embodiments, the detailed description of which refers to the drawings, wherein:

• 1 is a cross section of a fuel storage assembly;
• 2 FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a fuel pump module of the fuel storage assembly; FIG.
• 3 Figure 11 is a perspective view of a vapor pressure sensor of the fuel storage assembly mounted on a flange of the fuel pump module; and
• 4 FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a vapor pressure inlet device of the fuel storage assembly mounted within a fuel tank of the fuel storage assembly. FIG.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present invention in its applications or uses. It should be understood that in the drawings, like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts and features.

Illustrated in accordance with an exemplary embodiment 1 a fuel storage assembly 20 , which may be provided for a vehicle. The fuel storage assembly 20 can a fuel tank 22 , a fuel pump module 24 , and a vapor pressure detection system 26 include. The fuel tank 22 includes boundaries that a chamber 28 for the storage of fuel 30 Are defined. The fuel tank 22 can generally be a maximum fuel level 32 which is assigned to the maximum liquid fuel volume in the tank 22 according to its design can be stored. Because the volume of the chamber 28 greater than the maximum volume of the fuel tank 22 can be stored liquid fuel, the chamber can 28 a steam dome 34 include. The steam dome 34 can generally be through a surface 36 of the liquid fuel and an upper portion 38 of the fuel tank 22 be defined. The volume of the steam dome 34 is the least when the surface 36 generally at a maximum fuel level 32 is arranged. In one embodiment, the fuel tank 22 a saddle fuel tank, for example, around a rotating drive shaft 40 of the vehicle is formed.

With reference to the 1 and 2 can the fuel pump module 24 a flange 42 , a housing 44 , a fuel pressure regulator 46 , a fuel pump 48 , a fuel level indicator or a float 50 and a support structure 52 include. The flange 42 is formed and arranged to be on the fuel tank 22 to be fastened and around an opening 54 in the tank 22 sealable cover. The opening 54 can be big enough to insert the case 44 through the tank wall and into the chamber 28 permit. In some embodiments, and depending on the packaging of the fuel container 22 can the flange 42 below the maximum fuel level 32 of the fuel tank 22 are located below the steam dome 34 are located.

The housing 44 can at the bottom 56 of the fuel tank 22 be positioned to get in touch with this. The housing 44 can the fuel pressure regulator 46 and the fuel pump 48 envelop and structurally support. In some applications, the housing may 44 Contain limitations that a fuel storage (not shown) of substantially below the fuel pump 48 is positioned, define. In one example, the support structure 52 the support rods 58 (ie two that are in 2 Illustrated are or include substantially vertically between the flange 42 and the housing 44 extend and engage. The support structure 52 can also coil springs 60 include, which are adapted to the housing 44 down and against the bottom 56 of the fuel tank 22 cushion. It goes without saying and it is considered that the fuel pump module 24 may be any type of known fuel pump module having a flange sealingly attached to the fuel tank 22 is attached. For example, the housing 44 firmly to the flange 42 be attached and can the support structure 52 not mandatory.

With reference to 2 can the flange 42 the surfaces 57 . 59 include facing in opposite directions. The surface 57 may be an outer surface that is substantially upwards or outwards. The surface 59 may be an inner surface that houses the fuel chamber 28 partially defined and which may be turned substantially downwards or inwards. In one embodiment, the flange 42 include a plurality of ports that generally communicate with the fuel chamber 28 provide. For example, the flange 42 a fuel outlet nozzle 62 and a steam nozzle 64 Include, each upwards from the outside surface 57 project and a corresponding opening through the flange 42 define. An electrical connector 66 can also be on the outside surface 57 of the flange 42 attached and adapted to sealing various electrical equipment through the flange 42 and to the fuel pump 48 and one the swimmer 50 to guide associated level transmitter.

With reference to 1 can the vapor pressure detection system 26 a vapor detection sensor 68 , a vapor pressure inlet device 70 and a long pipe or pipe 72 include, located between the vapor detection sensor 68 and the vapor pressure inlet device 70 extends and provides communication there. More precisely, the line can 72 one with the vapor pressure inlet device 70 engaged inlet end segment 74 and one with the vapor detection sensor 68 engaged outlet end segment 76 involve and extend between the two.

The steam detection sensor 68 can be attached to the outside surface 57 of the flange 42 to be appropriate. The vapor pressure inlet device 70 can in the steam dome 34 the fuel chamber 28 be positioned and thus for a considerable amount of time prevented from entering the liquid fuel 30 to be immersed. It is further contemplated and understood that the vapor detection sensor 68 on each outside the fuel tank 22 or any other location where a fuel-impregnated environment does not degrade sensor operation. For example, the sensor with a proper housing (not shown) that is capable of the sensor 68 to protect against the adverse effects of the fuel inside the fuel tank 22 be positioned. In one embodiment, the flange 42 not the fuel pump module 24 and instead part of the vapor pressure sensing system 26 be.

In one embodiment, the vapor pressure inlet device 70 on the inner wall or the surface of the upper section 38 of the fuel tank 22 be attached. Similarly, the line 72 to the inner walls of the fuel tank 22 be appropriate for structural integrity. In other embodiments, the vapor pressure inlet device 70 and the line 72 directly to other structures (not shown) in the fuel chamber 28 be appropriate to enable structural integrity. Such structures may include other inner tubes that may enable other fuel system functions.

With reference to the 2 and 3 can the steam detection sensor 68 a sheath 78 include an electrical connection section 80 and a nipple or nozzle section 82 having. The jacket 78 can be attached to the outside surface 57 of the flange 42 to be appropriate. The section 80 of the electrical connection allows the connection of the electrical wiring, which may be led to a vehicle control, for example, the vapor pressure readings within the fuel tank 22 requires. The nozzle section 82 Can be sealed by the flange 42 and into the fuel chamber 28 be projected to connect to the outlet end segment 76 the line 72 manufacture. This connection may be a press fit connection or other type of connection, which is usually known in the art for the connection of pipes or pipes. It is further contemplated and understood that the housing 78 or a portion of the housing is an integral part of the flange 42 can be.

With reference to 4 may be the vapor pressure inlet device 70 generally an inlet structure 84 and a vapor permeable membrane 86 include. The inlet structure 84 For example, a birdcage structure may be the communication of vapor pressure through the conduit 72 promotes. In one embodiment, the birdcage structure 84 with the section at the top 38 of the fuel tank 22 be engaged. The inlet end segment 74 the line 72 can attach to the birdcage structure 84 be attached. The vapor permeable membrane 86 Generally, around the birdcage structure 84 be wrapped, or cover this to the permeability of the fuel vapor into the structure 84 to promote so that the vapor pressure properly through the pipe 72 can be detected.

The vapor permeable membrane 86 can for the liquid fuel 30 essentially impermeable. This resistance of liquid fuel migration through the membrane 86 generally minimizes or eliminates any penetration of liquid fuel into the conduit 72 which may deteriorate the pressure-detecting ability. A non-limiting example of a vapor permeable membrane 86 may be a synthetic fabric that may be generally flexible (eg, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene). An example of such a fabric is Gore-Tex® fabric, which is generally waterproof but also "breathable".

Advantages and advantages of the present disclosure include greater flexibility in fuel tank design and improved packaging within a vehicle while maintaining a reliable, robust vapor pressure sensing capability of the fuel.

While the above disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and the individual parts may be substituted with corresponding other parts without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular material situation to the teachings of the disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but include all embodiments that fall within its scope.

Claims (10)

A fuel storage assembly for a vehicle, comprising: a fuel tank defining a fuel chamber; a fuel pump module including a flange that engages the fuel tank and a fuel pump assembly that is supported by the flange and disposed in the fuel chamber; and a vapor pressure sensing system including a vapor pressure sensor attached to the flange, wherein a vapor pressure inlet device is disposed in the fuel chamber, and a conduit is attached to the vapor pressure inlet device and communicates between the vapor pressure inlet device and the vapor pressure sensor. Fuel storage assembly after Claim 1 , wherein the vapor pressure inlet device is arranged at a higher elevation than is the case with the flange. Fuel storage group after Claim 1 wherein the fuel tank includes a maximum fuel level and the vapor pressure inlet device is located above the maximum fuel level. Fuel storage assembly after Claim 3 wherein the flange is located below the maximum fuel level. Fuel storage assembly after Claim 1 wherein the vapor pressure inlet device includes a vapor permeable membrane constructed and arranged to prevent the migration of liquid fuel into an inlet end segment of the conduit. Fuel storage assembly after Claim 5 wherein the vapor pressure inlet device includes a birdcage structure attached to the conduit is attached and covered by the vapor permeable membrane. A fuel storage assembly for a vehicle, comprising: a fuel tank defining a fuel chamber having a vapor dome; and a vapor pressure sensing system including a vapor pressure sensor disposed outside the fuel tank, a vapor permeable membrane, and a conduit extending between the vapor dome and the vapor pressure sensor for providing communication therebetween, wherein the conduit includes an inlet end segment disposed in the vapor dome and through vapor permeable membrane is restricted to restrict migration of the liquid fuel into the inlet end segment. Fuel storage assembly after Claim 7 further comprising: a flange attached to the fuel tank, wherein the inlet end segment communicates with the vapor pressure sensor through the flange. Fuel storage assembly after Claim 8 wherein the vapor pressure sensor is attached to the flange. Fuel storage assembly after Claim 9 wherein the flange is part of a fuel pump module and the steam dome is defined by a portion of the fuel tank and a surface of the liquid fuel.

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